Dubai Taxi Corporation (DTC) has announced a major partnership with Bolt, a global shared mobility platform, to launch the UAE’s largest e-hailing service. This move marks Bolt’s entry into the UAE market, as the company expands its footprint in the Middle East following its success in Saudi Arabia and Egypt.
The partnership, unveiled at GITEX Global 2024, aims to enhance digital mobility solutions and expand smart transportation services across Dubai. By combining DTC’s extensive fleet of over 6,000 vehicles with Bolt’s advanced technology, the collaboration is set to significantly boost e-hailing services in the emirate.
Strategic Partnership Aims to Modernize Dubai’s Taxi Sector
Mansoor Rahma Alfalasi, CEO of DTC, and Markus Villig, Founder and CEO of Bolt, formalized the partnership in the presence of notable officials, including Erkki Keldo, Estonia’s Minister of Economy and Industry, and Abdul Mohsen Ibrahim Kalbat, Chairman of DTC. The agreement signals DTC’s commitment to aligning with the Roads & Transport Authority’s (RTA) directive to shift 80% of taxi trips to digital platforms in the coming years.
Alfalasi highlighted the importance of the partnership in reinforcing DTC’s leading role in the UAE’s transportation sector. “This strategic alliance will combine our local expertise and vast fleet with Bolt’s innovative technology to deliver a seamless and sustainable mobility experience for Dubai’s residents and visitors,” Alfalasi said.
Bolt’s Expansion in the Middle East
For Bolt, the collaboration represents the next stage in its ambitious expansion plan across the region. Having already established a strong presence in Saudi Arabia since 2017 and recently launching operations in Egypt, Bolt aims to bring its shared mobility solutions to the UAE’s rapidly growing e-hailing market.
“There are over 3.5 million cars on the UAE’s roads, contributing to traffic congestion, pollution, and long travel times,” said Villig. “This partnership will help reduce private car usage by offering an accessible, efficient alternative. It aligns with our mission to reduce the environmental impact of urban transportation.”
Technology-Driven Mobility Solutions
As part of the agreement, Bolt will integrate its e-hailing technology into DTC’s operations, enhancing digital booking capabilities and optimizing fleet management. This includes leveraging Bolt’s global infrastructure to bring innovative vehicle booking technologies and a broader customer base to Dubai’s transportation ecosystem.
DTC’s adoption of Bolt’s platform is expected to unlock significant opportunities in Dubai’s AED 6 billion taxi and e-hailing sector. The partnership underscores DTC’s commitment to advancing smart mobility and supporting Dubai’s goals for sustainable urban development.
By offering enhanced e-hailing services, DTC and Bolt are set to transform the way residents and visitors navigate the city, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global leader in smart transportation.
